Detroit, MI – As we are starting to see our first signs of spring-like weather in Metro Detroit, it is also time to think about severe weather safety as we look ahead into Michigan’s Severe Weather Awareness Week
The National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac will initiate the Michigan Statewide Tornado Drill using NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025.
Using NOAA Weather Radio, the National Weather Service will use the Routine Weekly Test (RWT) code to initiate the drill around 1:00 PM EDT.
This drill will cover all counties in Southeastern Michigan including Sanilac, St. Clair, Genessee, Lapeer, Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Wayne, Monroe and Lenawee Counties.
People are urged to practice their tornado precuations and safety plans during the drill.
It is important to note, the drill will not trigger the Emergency Alert Syste (EAS) like if a Tornado Warning were issued. NOAA Weather Radio Alarm Tones will be activated using the Required Weekly Test (RWT) code, but will have a special worded broadcast to signify the tornado drill.
It is important to remember the difference between a Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning:
Tornado Watch:
Conditions are right for tornadoes to form. When your area is under a Tornado Watch, be sure to tune into WDIV Local 4 News and other media sources for more information.
Tornado Warning:
A tornado has been spotted by a trained observer or detected on Doppler Radar. Take action immediately.
Tornado Safety Tips:
At Home:
- Go to the basement, under the stairs or under a heavy piece of furniture like a table or workbench.
- Get under heavy furniture, and cover your head with blankets or pillows. The biggest threat of death or injury comes from head injuries caused by flying or falling debris.
- Keep windows closed and stay away from them.
At School:
- Go to the lowest floor or basement.
- Get to interior rooms or hallways and protect your head.
- Stay out of gymnasiums and auditoriums.
- In Public Buildings
- Go to designated shelter, an interior hallway or small room on the lowest floor.
- Stay away from windows.
- Do not go to your car.
Out in the Open Country or Fields:
- Move away from a tornado at right angles.
- If a tornado is near, DO NOT try to outrun it.
- Get out of your car, lie flat in a ditch or depression.
- Stay away from large trees or metal poles. Cover your head.
Mobile Homes:
- Leave your mobile home immediately.
- If there is no designated community shelter, take cover in a ditch or depression.
- Persons in mobile homes should have a plan of action before threatening weather occurs.